History and Current Status of Chemical Regulation and Ecosystem Protection - 2006-2024
Before 2006: The genesis of regulation and the adoption of the POPs Convention
POPs (Persistent Organic Pollutants) became a serious problem because they are not easily degraded, remain in the environment for long periods of time, and accumulate in living organisms.
PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls), DDT, and dioxins are used as industrial waste and pesticides, and PCBs were banned in Japan in 1972.
In 2001, the POPs Convention was adopted in Stockholm, Sweden, and entered into force in 2004. Japan signed the Convention in 2002 and proceeded to tighten regulations.
Efforts in Japan in 2006
The emission standard for dioxins was set at 0.1 ng-TEQ/m³, and monitoring of incineration facilities was strengthened.
In 2006, nationwide dioxin emissions were reduced from about 500 g to 150 g per year, and proper disposal of PCB waste was promoted at the waste treatment facility in Rokkasho-mura.
Companies such as Asahi Kasei and Sumitomo Chemical have recovered more than 1,500 tons of PCB equipment, and disposal costs about 5 million yen per ton.
Progress in the 2020s and Tighter Regulations for New Substances
In the 2020s, PFHxS (perfluorohexanesulfonic acid) and LC-PFCA (long-chain perfluorocarboxylic acid) were newly added to the elimination list.
These were used in fluoropolymer processing and surfactants, but their accumulation and toxicity are problematic.
Chlorpyrifos (an insecticide) and medium-chain chlorinated paraffins (MCCPs) were also tightened, and their use in agricultural crops and auto parts manufacturing was restricted at the POPRC20 meeting in Rome, Italy, in September 2024.
Japan's Long-Term Goals and International Cooperation
Japan has set a goal of reducing POPs-related waste, including dioxins, by 70% by 2030.
Prevention of illegal dumping of waste is also a priority, and through the framework of UNEP (United Nations Environment Program), Japan is promoting technology transfer to the Philippines and Vietnam.
This keeps Japan at the forefront of international cooperation and environmental conservation.
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